us and canada relations Canadian Election: Where Do Candidates Stand on US Relations?

[Ana Silva]

US–Canada Relations – Time to Stand Firm or Find Common Ground?
Canadian Politics

As tensions rise with the U.S., especially in the wake of new tariffs and bold rhetoric from Washington, Canadian leaders are drawing battle lines—or building bridges. The question in this election: Do we confront or cooperate with America?

Here’s where the candidates stand:

• Pierre Poilievre (Conservative): "Canada will never be the 51st state of the U.S."

• Mark Carney (Liberal): “Our response to these latest tariffs is to fight, to protect, and to build.”

• Jagmeet Singh (NDP): "Trump’s an economic arsonist. We’ll defend Canadian workers."

• Jonathan Pedneault (Green): “The United States is no longer an ally; they have become a threat.”

• Yves-François Blanchet (Bloc): “We need our own counter-tariffs against American products.”

• Maxime Bernier (PPC): “This relationship is too important to let it collapse. We must repair it.”

Some leaders are advocating for strong retaliation to protect Canadian industry and sovereignty. Others warn against escalating conflict, arguing for a more conciliatory approach to safeguard trade and diplomacy.

Let’s talk about it:

• Should Canada stand up to U.S. protectionism or avoid an all-out trade war?

• Which leader’s vision of US–Canada relations makes the most sense to you?

• Is it time to rethink our reliance on the U.S.—or rebuild the partnership on firmer footing?

Drop your thoughts below. Canadian Election: Where Do Candidates Stand on US Relations?